A beach backyard

There are numerous benefits to buying a beachfront property in Southern California. Many potential buyers are searching for the perfect home to enjoy the surf, sun and sand. Not only can buyers obtain all that at 3373 Ocean Drive in Oxnard, but they also have the satisfaction of knowing their purchase will help aid the lives of children in need.

That's because all proceeds will directly benefit the Cottage Children's Hospital in Santa Barbara, which provides comprehensive aid to ill and injured children and adolescents of the Central Coast and surrounding communities.

The previous homeowner, who wishes to remain anonymous, saw an opportunity to not only better their life, but also the lives of others.

"The homeowner contacted the hospital and discussed donating the property as a charitable gift," said Carla Long, Director of Planned Giving at Cottage Health System. "It's common for homeowners to donate a second home or rental properties that they no longer wish to manage. Our donor, who is 90 years old, thought of leaving a legacy and doing something truly wonderful for the community."

The property is located in the south end of Hollywood Beach in Oxnard. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom, two-story home is ready to be transformed into a beach palace.

Prospective buyers will love this quiet beach community and its close proximity to numerous local attractions and restaurants. The beach itself is nothing to scoff at either, perfect for surfing, running or just lounging about. It's an ideal vacation home that can be enjoyed year round.

Originally built in 1973, this home doesn't shy away from the main focal point; the beautiful and unobstructed ocean and island views. On a clear day, the Anacapa and Santa Cruz Islands can be seen not too far off into the distance. This home greatly takes advantage of its numerous large and open windows, filling the home with plenty of natural light in all major areas.

With approximately 2,292 square feet of living space, the home is the perfect size for any family or retired couple seeking a simpler life. The first level consists of the primary entertainment space with the living, dining room, kitchen and single bathroom all located downstairs. The upper level contains all three bedrooms, a loft and the final two bathrooms.

The interior of the home is decorated with natural cedar wood paneling and features exposed wood beams on a flat ceiling. While the interior of the home has remained true to its original concept, its natural elements invoke a sense of comfort and simplicity.

The flow for the bottom level of the home is seamless as the transition from one space to the next is made with the slightest of ease. The living room features built-in storage, a gas fireplace with a slate hearth and sitting space and a direct view of the beach. During the cooler months, it's a prime location to relax and enjoy the warmth of a fire while sipping a cup of hot cocoa.

The kitchen provides direct access into the garage and includes many of the primary essentials including refrigerator, double oven, gas range and dishwasher. There is an abundance of countertop space and storage and as a result from a trip to Japan, the previous homeowner installed a hibachi-inspired grill, perfect for indoor cooking.

With an enormously tall ceiling, the dining room space is large and provides one of the more clear views of the surf and sand. From the dining room, there is direct access to the side of the home, which is covered by glass, and to the wooden deck. Not only serving as the primary gateway to the one of the best elements of coastal living, it's a fantastic entertainment space that also doubles as an obvious choice for outdoor dining.

The second level of the home can be accessed in one of two ways; using the spiral wrought iron staircase or using the home's pneumatic vacuum elevator. With its compact design, the elevator is a great mode of transportation between floors and is ideal for those who face a difficult time using the stairs. Both paths lead up into the loft, which provides an open view down into the dining room and a clear sight of the beach.

With an atrium-covered balcony, no other interior space provides such a wide view of the beach and ocean as does the master bedroom. The surrounding view only reassures the reason why owning a beachfront home is so fantastic. With its unparalleled view, it gives a reason to never leave the confines of such a great space. The attached master bath includes large countertop space, copious amount of natural lighting and built-in closet space.

The rest of the upper level includes the washer and dryer closet and the last two bedrooms of the home, with an attached Jack-and-Jill bathroom.

Potential buyers are sure to enjoy the various restaurants and activities that are located not too far from the home. From the Sunday Farmer's Market to the annual Fourth of July shows, there is plenty to do away from the beach.

The home is currently listed at $1,850,000 by agent Erik Moen of Re/Max Gold Coast. This home presents a chance at not only providing the highly sought after beach life, but an opportunity in assisting the lives of children in need.

For more information about the property, contact Moen at 453-5566 or visit www.erikmoen.remaxagent.com.

For more information about Cottage Children's Hospital, visit www.cottagehealthsystem.org.